Supporting local businesses is crucial in times like this, when we are all affected by a pandemic one way or another, just like all business owners specially recently open business like Mano took a big hit as the city of Miami decided to close doors and wait for the times to change. Meet Monique the genius behind Mano, A Filipina from New York who’s new Non-Toxic Japanese inspired way of making nail is the ultimate treatment for your fingertips.
Monique Magnaye, I’m a Filipina from New York with a background in interior design and creative direction 🙂
What is Mano?
Mano is a modern nail art salon and boutique hybrid inspired by things done by hand.
As mentioned, my background is interior design and before I founded Mano, my last client was a nail salon in NYC and I opened up 2 locations for them downtown. This was really my dream job because I have always loved getting my nails done since I was a teenager. At the time I was also freelancing and wanted to have a part-time job for some extra cash, so I ended up managing the salon and while also doing their rebranding and creative work. It was there that I really learned the backend of how a salon runs and also really loved connecting with clients. Miami was where I would go whenever I needed a break from NYC because I just loved the vibe and the easy access to beautiful beaches, and it’s such an easy plane ride from the city! The more I visited, I also realized that there was a big opportunity to open up a unique nail studio experience, especially one that is driven by clean beauty. I was working so hard for the salon I was managing in NYC but realized it would never be the same as really being my own, and wanted to build a brand with my vision and things I was truly passionate about. I also realized that as much as I love NYC I also felt really happy whenever I was in Miami, so I decided to take a leap, connected with a realtor and found a special place in Midtown Miami, MANO’s now home.
We are mainly known for our non-toxic nail art services, specializing in a Japanese, vegan soft gel system that promotes and supports healthy natural nails. Our commitment to using high quality, non-toxic, 10-free products are based on our belief that hands deserve the best for all the work that they do. The concept of our space is to have guests treat their hands to a nail art manicure without the harsh chemicals and then explore our retail section of handmade goods that is curated to inspire more creative, purposeful hand use.
Our signature Mano nail art collection consists of designs made with a strong play on color theory (we carry over 200 non-toxic Japanese gel polishes) and mixing in unique items like crushed mother of pearl shells, delicate studs and organic shapes. I like to think our collection holds a design for every style. Our talented nail artists can also create any custom look based on your vision and preferences!
How was Mano affected by COVID 19?
We were a 9 week old company when we were mandated to shut down by the city, so it was very difficult and nerve-wrecking. There was so much uncertainty for everyone of course, but I tried to keep creative and connected through our Instagram, and knew that once were able to reopen it would be a new opportunity to keep pushing our mission, educate clients about nail health and of course all the fun nail art we have to offer!
Why should people choose Mano?
We are a true non-toxic salon, and I have personally used these products for 4+ years which have continuously supported my natural nail goals and health. At Mano, we exclusively work with Japanese gel because they are the safest and most nourishing product for natural nails, and with time and consistency, just like any beauty routine you will see amazing results. Japanese gels of course are made in their native country of Japan, which has one of the stricter regulations in the world for beauty and personal care products. They currently ban 3000+ chemicals found to be severely harmful through their thorough safety tests and inspections; the USA’s banned list is currently less than a dozen.
Thank you @Planet Fashion for featuring Mano/Miami!